What is the recommended use and administration of Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite) for facial wrinkles?

Recommended Use and Administration of Radiesse for Facial Wrinkles

Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite) is recommended for moderate to severe facial wrinkles, particularly nasolabial folds, with injection into the subdermal plane using proper technique to minimize discomfort and optimize results. 1, 2

Indications and Composition

• Radiesse is composed of synthetic calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres (30%) suspended in an aqueous carrier gel (70%) 1
• FDA-approved indications:
  • Correction of moderate to severe nasolabial folds
  • Correction of facial lipoatrophy in people with HIV 1, 2
• Common off-label uses:
  • Marionette lines
  • Prejowl sulcus
  • Malar/submalar/zygomatic augmentation
  • Oral commissure defects
  • Hand rejuvenation 1, 3

Administration Technique

Pre-procedure

1. Evaluate the degree of volume loss using a standardized scale to determine appropriate treatment approach 4
2. Clean the area thoroughly with a gentle cleanser and dry with a soft towel 5
3. Avoid applying moisturizers or creams immediately before injection 5

Pain Management Options

• Local anesthetic (recommended for optimal comfort)
• Ice application to reduce discomfort during injection 6
• For nasolabial folds (which can be particularly painful), adequate anesthesia is essential 6

Injection Technique

1. Inject into the subdermal plane (not superficially) 2
2. Use a 25-gauge needle or larger bore cannula for smooth administration 5
3. For facial wrinkles:
   • Linear threading or serial puncture technique
   • Avoid overcorrection as Radiesse provides immediate volume 1, 3

Post-Treatment Care

• Gently clean and dry the treated area 5
• Apply non-perfumed moisturizer after treatment to maintain skin barrier integrity 4
• Avoid:
  • Sun exposure (use soft clothing to cover or mineral sunblocks)
  • Skin irritants (perfumes, deodorants, alcohol-based lotions)
  • Scratching the treated area 5

Expected Results and Follow-Up

• Immediate correction of wrinkles and volume loss
• Duration of effect: approximately 12 months 2, 7
• Evaluate results at 2 weeks post-treatment
• Consider touch-up treatment at 3 months if needed 4
• Long-term studies show 40% of treated nasolabial folds remain "improved" even 30 months after treatment 7

Safety Considerations

• No reports of long-term or delayed-onset adverse events in patients followed for three years 7
• No reports of nodules, granulomas, or infections that have been associated with certain other fillers 7
• Avoid greasy topical products in the treated area as they can promote superinfection 5

Potential Synergistic Treatments

• Consider combination with laser treatments for comprehensive rejuvenation (apply Radiesse after laser treatment) 4
• Research suggests combining with autologous platelet concentrates may provide synergistic effects for improved appearance and skin elasticity 4

Radiesse demonstrates excellent safety and durability compared to other injectable fillers, making it an effective option for facial rejuvenation with sustained cosmetic improvement and minimal risk of complications.